Central Pacific: Manuel Antonio and Jaco
Boutique hotels and resorts in Manuel Antonio, one of Costa Rica's  top destinations for wildlife and adventure.

The Central Pacific beaches stretch from Playa Herradura (Los Sueños) to Manuel Antonio and further south to Playa Dominical.  The principal tourist centers are the towns of Jaco and Manuel Antonio.  From large five star resorts featuring the Marriott Los Suenos and soon-to-open St. Regis Resort, to boutique hotels and resorts in Manuel Antonio led by Si Como No, Gaia and Makanda, this Central Pacific region is a must-visit for families in an adventure-filled Costa Rica vacation.

Jaco is known for its surfing and nightlife.   It has dark sand beaches, magnificent waves, and is renowned for its fishing and surfing.  Luxurious accommodations are available nearby in Playa Herradura. The famed Los Sueños Resort features Central America’s best marina, superb sport fishing, and a great golf course.

Manuel Antonio is the most popular destination in Costa Rica, yet the government has been able to keep this famous national park unspoiled. Here you can find almost any type of adventure activity and tour such as sport fishing, sea kayaking, catamaran cruises, white water rafting, canopy tours, nature hikes, tours on ATVs, horseback and surfing.  Manuel Antonio hotels and resorts range from small and boutique like to mid size in Parador.  Luxury and comfort come in many flavors, from ultra modern Gaia, to nature and ecologically friendly Si Como No.

The Central Pacific is a wonderful destination for both families and couples in a Costa Rica Vacation.  This region is easily accessible from San Jose by air on commercial flights, or by car.

While in Manuel Antonio / Central Pacific:

It’s a must to visit Manuel Antonio National Park: Observe spider and white-faced monkeys, sloths and iguanas; hike trails through the mangroves; and lounge on pristine beaches. 

Take a day trip to Dominical, where you will find great beaches and superb surfing. One hour south of Manuel Antonio. 

Sport fishing in Quepos. Home to some of the world’s best sport fishing -- Boats with experienced crews and great service can be reserved on site. 

Experience sea or estuary kayaking in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean Waters, and get a great workout at the same time!

Visit the rainforest or the dry tropical forest on the new Pacific Aerial Tram.  Take in the amazing scenery on the two-hour drive to the site of the Aerial Tram.

Go on an eco-adventure at Turu Bari Nature Park! Turu offers many activities including: Canopy Tour, Sensational Cable (gliding through the air “superman style” at up to 60 mph), horseback riding, aerial tram, hiking trails, gardens, a butterfly observatory, and a farm area.  Great for families or groups with multiple interests.

Embark on a full day cruise to Tortuga Island.  This white sand beach offers the opportunity to relax in the catamaran on the way to the island, and enjoy fun and relaxation under the sun.  A succulent beach BBQ is served at lunchtime.

Enjoy an exciting open sea expedition in search for dolphins.  Embark on a full day dolphin and whale watching tour in the deep blue Pacific Ocean waters off the coast of Manuel Antonio.  If you prefer, embark on a relaxing sunset cruise aboard the catamaran for a romantic afternoon and evening off the shores of Quepos.

Marvel at the unspoiled beaches of Manuel Antonio and the mysterious islands that lay just offshore as you sail on a 37 foot catamaran off the Central Pacific waters.  Jagged rock formations and towering cliffs are host and nesting grounds to countless marine birds and their young.  Look for spotted dolphins and keep an eye out for giant sea turtles and migrating humpback whales.   The tour will stop in one of the many protected jungle coves to swim, snorkel and enjoy lunch or dinner.

Explore the mangroves guided by experts.  This tour presents a unique opportunity to spot the local wildlife traveling by boat to this unspoiled, pristine ecosystem.  Expect close encounters with white-faced monkeys, sloths and many bird species.

Families and couples designing a Costa Rica vacation package should take a close look at Manuel Antonio, Herradura beach and the hotels and resorts of the Central Pacific region.  This is a top destination in Costa Rica for wildlife watching, adventure and nature.  Please contact our Memorable Costa Rica travel advisors to include the Manuel Antonio resorts and hotels in your vacation package.  Call us toll free at (888) 928-3688 or email us at info@memorablecostarica.com.

Costa Rica is a tropical country with only two seasons: dry and green! Click here for forecast Exchange Rate for May 13 507.54 CRC for each USD 685.18 CRC for each EUR